Sankoyo re-appoint Mabhena as head coach

SHARE | Monday, 07 August 2017 | By Solomon Tjinyeka

The Sankoyo Bush Bucks Football Club has reappointed the Zimbabwean mentor Philani Mabhena as their head coach. Team spokesperson Baganetsi Kamanakao confirmed that Mabhena has already been unveiled. Mabhena appointment comes after the Maun-based outfit parted ways with Serbian Drago Stanlojovic who has found his new home at Township Rollers. Mabhena has signed a two-year contract with the team. “This time we want to reach top eight and that what we have agreed,” he said, adding that they have full confidence on the coach as he has previously worked with the team. Mabhena will be assisted by Gadimang Tiiso whose contract was also renewed. Mabhena the first coached the team when it was promoted to the elite premier league in 2014. Things went sour between him and the club when it failed to pay him his salary as per contract. Kamanakao confirmed that they have ironed out their issues with the coach, saying they are now in a better position to meet their financial obligations to the coach.

He admitted that they still owe Mabhena some money but have agreed on a new model of settling the debt. They also owe their former coach Drago some of his wage, he confirmed. Kamanakao said although they have been struggling to secure sponsorship this season is better as the Sankoyo Tshwaragano Management Trust has committed itself helping out the cash strapped club with financial support. They have already disbursed P590, 000 to be used in the new season which starts in August. The money will be used to cover their wage bill. The Trust has already bought a 25 seater mini bus which the team will use, Kamanakao said. Kamanakao warned rivals in the Premier league they are ready to compete, having added some new faces to their team following successful trials that drew over 50 players from across the country. The team is interested in two foreigners who are currently training with the team. They have welcomed back into their fold Morris Ruzivo after a short stint with Jwaneng Galaxy.